Title: Microlith
Date: Mesolithic
Provenance: Godavarikhani, Peddapalli Dt., Telangana
Medium: Chalcedony
Dimensions(mm): 11 x 22 x 6
Weight: 1.5 gm
Source of Acquisition: Gift
Credit Line: Mr. Sunil Samudrala, Godavarikhani
Accession Number: PIF/00ST24
In the Mesolithic period, a significant technological advancement was the creation of parallel-sided blades. There was a noticeable trend towards the production of smaller tools, known as microliths, likely driven by adaptations to environmental changes.
This microlith, crafted from black chalcedony, features distinct downward flaking towards its sharp edges. As a flake tool, its flaking patterns are clearly visible, with both crude and sharp edges. Chalcedony, often favoured in the Mesolithic period for tool making, was ideal for creating precise and effective tools due to its ability to be split into thin, sharp splinters, known as flakes or blades.
